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K9 Handler
K9 Handler
Morgan’s days are anything but ordinary. As a K9 handler, her work revolves around training and conducting detection sweeps alongside her canine partners, Miller and Tex. Each day brings a new challenge, from changing training locations and hides to traveling for assignments and working in a variety of environments. No two days are exactly alike, and that variety is one of the things she loves most about the job. Whether preparing for the next assignment or working in the field, one thing remains constant: every day starts and ends with the dogs.
The most rewarding part is seeing my dog show up every day ready to work and try to outwork me. There aren’t many jobs where you get a partner who is that excited to be there and always wants to give you their best. That kind of effort and loyalty makes you want to be a better handler and give them the same in return.
This career has taught me to trust my dog, but that trust has to be backed by the training we’ve put in together. Dogs can be frustrating at times, and having the patience to work through a problem instead of rushing it makes all the difference. It’s also taught me how valuable it is to learn from others. There are so many great handlers and trainers, and I appreciate their feedback, whether we’re troubleshooting something in training or working a venue together. You and your dog are a team, but having good people around you makes you both better.
My family keeps me grounded. I try to make time for the things we love doing together, and that includes spending time with the dogs outside of work. We love a good “pack walk.” We all head out to the field, let the dogs run wild, and talk about our days while we walk. It’s one of my favorite ways to unwind and catch up with my family.
I think people overlook how the little things about a piece of gear add up over a long day. A clip might be easy to open at home, but can I work it with gloves on ? Can I get to a reward with one hand and deliver it right when my dog earns it? Is my gear still comfortable 10 hours into a job? I pay attention to those things in training because that’s where I notice what I’m constantly adjusting or fumbling with. If I can grab what I need by feel and keep moving, I can keep my eyes on my dog. That matters because a change in my dog’s behavior can be subtle and easy to miss if I’m looking down at my gear.
The Agility Pants are my favorite pants I’ve worn to date. They have a tailored fit that makes them look like they were made for me, and I swear by the cell phone pocket. Having a dedicated spot for my phone means I always know where to reach for it. I also use the Elite 3-Day Backpack every day. It fits my rain gear, warm layers, first aid kits for both me and the dogs, and extra gear for training. It’s also my carry-on when I fly with one of the dogs. I can pack everything my dog needs for the flight and layovers in one bag, and the flight attendants haven’t batted an eye.
